Ear of frog and toe of newt! It’s finally time for . . .
The 6th Annual HALLOWEENSIE CONTEST!!!!!
aahhhrrrooooOOOOO!!!!!
The Contest: write a 100 word Halloween story appropriate for children (title not included in the 100 words, children here defined as 12 and under), using the words spider, ghost, and moon. Your story can be scary, funny or anything in between, poetry or prose, but it will only count for the contest if it includes those 3 words and is 100 words (you can go under, but not over!) Get it? Halloweensie – because it’s not very long and it’s for little people 🙂 (And yes, I know 100 words is short but that’s part of the fun and the challenge! We got nearly 150 fantastic entries last year so I know you can do it!) Also, you may use the words in any form – e.g. moon, moons, mooned, spidery, ghostly, whathaveyou 🙂 No illustration notes please!
Post your story on your blog between right now this very second and Monday October 31st by 11:59 PM EDT and add your post-specific link to the list below. There will be no Perfect Picture Book post on Friday Oct. 28 so the post and the list of links will stay up all weekend for everyone to enjoy. If you don’t have a blog and would like to enter, you can simply copy and paste your entry in the comments section below. (Or, if you have difficulty with the comments, which unfortunately sometimes happens, you may email your entry to me and I’ll post it for you! Please place your entry in the body of the email – NO ATTACHMENTS!) P.S. Although I try to stay glued to my computer 24/7 I am sometimes forced to leave my desk. If you haven’t commented on my blog before, your comment won’t show up until I approve it. It may take a little while if I’m away from my desk. Likewise, if you send me an entry to post, I promise I will do it as soon as I can!
The Judging: in a grueling marathon over the following days, my lovely assistants and I will narrow down the entrants to 3 top choices (hee hee hee – you know how much trouble I have with only 3, so we’ll see) which will be posted here and voted on for a winner on Monday November 7th. The winner will be announced on either Wednesday November 9 or Thursday November 10. If we get more than 20 entries, I will post 6 finalists and give prizes for 1st through 3rd. If by some chance we get the kind of turn out we did last year, all bets are off. I may post as many as 10 finalists and I’ll probably end up giving everyone a prize 🙂 But we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it 🙂
Judging criteria will be as follows:
- 1. Kid-appeal! – These stories are intended for a young audience (ages 12 and under), so we’re looking for stories that children will enjoy and relate to.
- 2. Halloweeniness – the rules state a Halloween story, so it must be crystal clear that the story is about Halloween, not just some random spooky night.
- 3. Quality of story – entries must tell a story, including a main character of some kind and a true story arc even if it’s tiny 🙂 Entries must not be merely descriptions or mood pieces.
- 4. Quality of Writing: check your spelling, grammar, punctuation etc. If you’re going to rhyme, give us your best 🙂 Overall writing quality and use of language are also important.
- 5. Originality and creativity – because that is often what sets one story above another.
The Prizes:
– a Picture Book Manuscript Critique by wonderful editor Marilyn Brigham of Two Lions!!!
Marilyn Brigham
Marilyn Brigham edits picture books, chapter books, and middle grade for Two Lions, the children’s imprint at Amazon Publishing. Her recent titles include Go to School, Little Monster by Helen Ketteman, illustrated by Bonnie Leick and The Secret Knock Club: The Great Sleep-Under, by Louise Bonnett-Rampersaud, illustrated by Adam McHeffey. She is looking for commercial, character-driven picture books and chapter books; holiday picture books; and widely appealing, high-concept middle grade. She is not currently acquiring board books or nonfiction.
– a Picture Book Manuscript Critique by the fabulous agent Jodell Sadler of Sadler Children’s Literary Agency!!!
Jodell Sadler
– winner’s choice of a Picture Book Manuscript Critique or a 15-minute phone call for all your writerly questions from fantastic author Katy Duffield (LOUD LULA – Two Lions 2015, FARMER MCPEEPERS AND HIS MISSING MILK COWS – Cooper Square Publishing 2003, ALIENS GET THE SNIFFLES TOO – forthcoming from Candlewick, and many other titles)
Katy Duffield
– winner’s choice of a Picture Book Manuscript Critique or a Query Letter Critique from amazing author Dori Kleber (MORE-IGAMI, Candlewick 2016)
Dori Kleber
– a Picture Book Manuscript Critique from the awesome Vivian Kirkfield, author of the forthcoming SWEET DREAMS, SARAH – Creston Books, 2017) AND personalized signed copies of her wonderful books SHOW ME HOW and the LUCKY DRAW ANTHOLOGY.
Vivian Kirkfield
– a Bundle Of Books from KidLit411 (must be selected by someone in the USA due to postage) including:
Picture Books:
THEY ALL SAW A CAT by Brendan Wenzel
GOODNIGHT GOODNIGHT CONSTRUCTION SITE by Sherri Duskey Rinker
THE LITTLE MOUSE, THE RED RIPE STRAWBERRY AND THE BIG HUNGRY BEAR by Don and Audrey Wood
A MORNING WITH GRANDPA- Sylvia Liu
Middle Grade Books:
THE GEOGRAPHY OF YOU AND ME- Jennifer E. Smith
SUNNY SIDE UP Jennifer and Matthew Holm
IF YOU’RE READING THIS Trent Reedy
AL CAPONE DOES MY SHIRTS Gennifer Choldenko
(What a totally awesome book bundle for writers, readers, parents, teachers, or gift-givers!!!)
– a 6 month subscription to One Stop For Writers (value $50)
– an e-pub or PDF copy (winner’s choice) of Linda Ashman‘s Nuts And Bolts Guide To Writing Picture Books.
– a personalized signed copy of THE PEDDLER’S BED by Lauri Fortino
– a personalized signed copy of GRIMELDA THE VERY MESSY WITCH by Diana Murray
Please join me again in thanking these very generous authors and other writing professionals for contributing their books and writing expertise as prizes by visiting their websites and blogs, considering their books and services for holiday or other gift purchases, rating and/or reviewing their books on GoodReads, Amazon, B&N or anywhere else if you like them, or supporting them in any other way you can dream up 🙂
Now then. Time for my sample entry which I provide because I would never ask you to do anything I wouldn’t do myself. Also, in case anyone is worried about the quality of their entry they have only to read my truly horrific attempt to be filled with confidence that their’s is MUCH better! I have to confess, I was really down to the wire this year (my schedule is a little bit nuts!), I have a deadline for tomorrow… which also means I may be a little behind getting started reading entries… just so you know… but I digress!
So, here goes nothing…!
Won’t You Come Into My Parlor…? (100 words)
The Halloweensie Spider was lonesome as could be.
“Nobody ever comes to visit me.
“I know!” she said. “I’ll plan a big to-do!”
So she sent out invitations to everyone she knew.
The Halloweensie Spider got ready for her guests.
Hot apple cider and candy treasure chests.
Games organized for lots of friendly fun
Like Pumpkin Golf, a Witch Ring Toss, and Find The Skeleton.
The Halloweensie Spider stood at her moonlit door
Greeting the witches, goblins, ghosts, and more.
“So glad you came!” she told them with a smile.
“Forgive my sticky floors, but I hoped you’d stay awhile!”
Everyone feeling better about their stories now? I should certainly HOPE so! 🙂
Also, this is so weird I just have to share it. I realized belatedly that totally by chance, my sample entry from last year also included the 3 words from this year. Look!
Halloween Surprise! (100 words)
Halloween. Trick-or-treat.
Spooky shadows. Darkened street.
Suddenly my brother, Jay,
Tugs my arm. “Let’s go this way!”
He pulls me off the beaten track,
Passes Old Man Clancy’s shack.
Creeping fog licks at our heels.
I don’t like the way this feels.
Something glides in silent flight,
Ghostly shapes against the night.
“Witches! Let’s go home!” I say.
“Owls. Let’s go on,” says Jay.
Spidered moonlight through the trees.
Heartbeat pounding. Shaky knees.
Up ahead this haunted night
Monsters dance by bonfire light!
Turning! Running!
Then, “SURPRISE!”
Costumed monsters end disguise.
Cake and presents, friends who say,
“Happy Halloween Birthday!”
How weird is that?! But I figured it would be cheating to use it again 🙂
I can’t wait to read all of your entries! I’m so looking forward to them! I hope there will be a lot – the more the merrier! And there are still nearly 5 days to write, so you have time if you haven’t written yet. Feel free to spread the word to your writing friends as well. And your reading friends – parents, teachers, etc. The more people who read and enjoy your stories, the better!!!
So! I don’t love this link system, but it’s all I have, so my apologies and do your best with it, and let’s hope it works!
Contest Entrants, remember to add your post-specific link to the linky list below so we can all come read your awesome stories! (Post-specific means not your main blog url, but the actual url of the post that has your story in it – otherwise if you post again before the contest ends, your link will take readers… and judges!… to the wrong place!)
Eager Readers – you ALSO need to click the “click here” to add your entry button on the linky list just to see the list of links. I apologize profusely for the inconvenience of not having the list visible right here on my site. But this, apparently, is wordpress…
Powered by Linky Tools
Click here to enter your link and view this Linky Tools list…
Happy Writing and Happy Halloween!!! 🙂
ENTRY POSTED FOR BARBARA
Halloween Dog by Barbara DiMarco
As the sun set, Tiny began her usual Halloween custom…hiding under the couch till morning. Tiny wasn’t a Halloween kind of dog.
“Not yet,” sang her owner. “It’s wee-wee time!”
Teeny Tiny snorted at the damp grass under her paws. She shivered against the chill in the air. She scoffed and finally squatted. Suddenly, the sky cleared. Timid Tiny found herself gazing at the full autumn moon! Something twitched her tail. A spider? A ghost? No.
It was a feeling…filling her stomach, rising in her throat, leaping straight out her mouth…”AAAHHRooo! AAAHHROOOO!”
“YAAHROOOOOooo!” replied the other Halloween dogs.
Cute!
What fun, Barbara…I love that Teeny Tiny found her Halloween spirit.;)
Aw! I’m glad Tiny found her Halloween spirit! She may even have surprised herself! 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun, Barbara!
Here is my entry! Whew. Now I can sit back and relax while I enjoy reading all the stories already posted. 🙂 Thanks again, Susanna, for organizing such a fun contest!
Itsy and Bitsy’s Halloween Treat
by Becky Scharnhorst
Itsy and Bitsy scurried down the path and scuttled up separate trees. Working together, they spun a giant web that shimmered in the moonlight.
“I think it’s our best yet,” said Itsy.
“Quick! They’re coming!” said Bitsy.
They lowered themselves into position as doorbells dinged in the distance. Soon, they spied three little ghosts skipping toward them.
“Boo!” yelled Itsy.
“Trick or Treat!” yelled Bitsy.
“Spider!” yelled the ghosts.
The buckets flew up, the candy fell down, and all three ghosts raced back to town.
“Happy Halloween!” said the spiders as they climbed on their web to feast.
Love Itsy and Bitsy! Cute!
Thanks, Karen! 🙂
Good plan. I need a web like that. 🙂
Me too! I’ve been known to sneak a treat (or 10) from my kiddos’ Halloween stash. Perhaps that was what inspired the story. 🙂
Becky…those were tricky trick or treating spiders. 🙂 🙂 What a clever way for them to get some sweets.
Thanks, Vivian! And thanks for donating such wonderful prizes for the winners! I’m constantly amazed at the generosity of the children’s writing community and authors like you who are so willing to give back. 🙂
What a fun concept! This gave me a big smile!!
Thanks so much!
Love that the ghosts are scared of spiders, and what a clever Halloween trick Itsy and Bitsy perpetrated! 🙂 Thanks so much for an entertaining entry, Becky, and for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Monster Chef by Kristy Rachal
Ghost Gabby was ready
All chefs gathered ‘round,
To win the grand prize as
The best chef in town.
The first round was tough for
her warm worm soufflé
It teetered but steadied
(some worms slid away).
The next round was better
Great pasta with ease
She topped it with spiders
And parmesan cheese.
The moon glowed above as
She cooked her last meal.
It had to be perfect,
I’ve got this! she squealed.
“Ghost Gabby, Scream Soup is
The best of the day
3 cheers for Chef Gabby,
Hip Hip Howl Hooray!!!”
Wow! Great writing…nailed the imagery and language! This is my personal favorite! Good luck!
Thanks so much!!!
Very cute!
Thank you!
Love it. Chopped Halloween style. 🙂
FABULOUS!!!!
That was my goal. 🙂 Thanks a bunch!!
Love this!
Thanks Becky! This was a fun challenge.
Love your rhyme, Kristy…and this is a really cute story! I’m so glad Chef Gabby was the winner with all of her Halloween delights. 😉
Thanks so much, Vivian!
So good!!
Thank you, Yvette!!!
Reminds me of Halloween wars on the Food network…love it, great rhyming!
Thanks a bunch!:)
So good! I especially like the lines about the worms and “Hip Hip Howl Hooray!!!”
Thanks Sandy!!!
Great job, Kristy! Fun story, well-written rhyme, and Chef Gabby wins the day! It makes me think of Chopped (which apparently means I’ve spent too much time on the Food Network!) 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Sarah Spider’s Curse
Sarah Spider is cursed.
Under the Halloween moon, Sarah transforms into a ghost.
But what do ghosts do?
Sarah hides in dimly lit corners – BOO!
And they scream.
Sarah snatches candy from bags – MUAHAHA!
And they scream.
Sarah mumbles creepy noises – CRREEEEAK!
And they scream.
Sarah is sad. She doesn’t like making them scream.
But that is what ghosts do.
Sarah is glad it’s done on November 1.
Maybe Sarah Spider is blessed.
Oooh…I’m glad that Sarah only has one day a year that she has to be a ghost spider…maybe she can find a way to escape the curse. 😉 Fun story, Jennifer!
Thank you!
Poor Sarah! I’m glad her curse only affects her one day a year! Lucky her that she doesn’t get that reaction as a spider! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun, Jennifer!
Halloween Surprise by Jessica Dunnagan
Bright night,
rising moon,
Halloween is here.
Friends are gathered—
Spider, squirrel, raccoon, and ghost—
Almost time to trick or treat.
Cloudy night,
Hiding moon,
Sky is changing.
What’s this falling?
Drifting, dancing,
Soft and white.
Ghost is worried,
What to do?
Halloween is here.
Stepping out,
Testing snow,
Cold and deep.
Spider, squirrel, and raccoon
Sinking down, faces peeking,
Now they’re stuck.
Floating ghost
Saves the day:
Frying pan with rope attached.
Pulling friends
Across the snow,
Ghost sets off to trick or treat.
Swirling snowflakes,
Cozy creatures,
Halloween is here!
Sounds like lots of fun for those animals friends on a cold snowy Halloween…good job, Jessica…did they make a sled out of a pan? How clever of them!
Nice job, Jessica! Love the challenge of the snow, and how ghost saves the day with quick thinking! Love the repetition of “halloween is here”, and some of your beautiful language like the “hiding moon”! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
This is my first time entering this contest. It just seemed like so much fun I couldn’t resist! Thanks for hosting! Hope you enjoy my story:) Happy Halloween!!
The Spider Ghost’s Curse by Me!…Anne Lambelet (100 words)
“Alright!” Jason, cried, sprinting ahead. “These people put out a whole bowl of candy! ‘Please take only one.’ Yeah right!”
“Leave some for everyone else!” I cautioned, but he greedily swiped every last piece. Suddenly, a giant spider scuttled out of the empty bowl. Panicking, Jason stomped it into goo. From the smudge on the sidewalk, a huge ghost arose, blotting out the moon.
“Now you will be cursed forever!” it howled.
Jason started shrinking, spindly new limbs growing and black hair covering everything. Afterwards, I scooped him up shaking my head. I told him he should’ve only taken one…
Love the lesson learned! Clever story!
Thank you so much Kathy! I’m glad you like it:)
Haha! That’s super fun.
Thanks!!
Oh my goodness, Annie…Jason got what was coming to him…was that his sister with him…sounds like she wasn’t surprised…guess she’d been putting up with his greedy nature all her life. ) Maybe he’ll learn his lesson and change back in a sequel. 😉 Fun story!
Thank you so much! I was definitely imagining Jason as being the narrator’s greedy little brother;)
Great story, Anne! Love how it comes full circle.
Hahaha! Spooky and fun! I guess Jason learned his lesson! I hope he enjoys life as a spider 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the contest, Anne!
Amazing entries so far! Susanna – you’ll have your work cut out for you! 🙂
Little Witch’s Holiday
Little Witch loved this time of year.
She loved the bright glow of the moon over the swirling leaves.
And how the air smelled like smoke.
“My favorite holiday is tomorrow! I have much to do!”
Little Witch’s friends knew not to interfere.
Spider watched her gather pumpkins.
Ghost watched her unload sweet treats.
Cat watched her sweep her front steps.
Finally, Little Witch was ready.
The doorbell rang and she peeked out the window.
Her friends were dressed up and waiting on her doorstep.
She smiled. It was time.
Little Witch threw open her door and shouted,
“Happy Thanksgiving!”
You got me! lol!
Haha! Thanks Ingrid 🙂
Oh you little dickens you! Jen…you totally got me at the end…I had no clue…so funny…love this!
Thanks so much Vivian! Glad it was a surprise 🙂
Love it…great ending!
Thanks so much Jean! Appreciate the feedback 🙂
Well played, Jen! You certainly got me! Great job creating character, story, and surprise ending in 100 words! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MELISSA
TRICK OR TREAT (99 word count)
By Melissa Stoller
On the night before Halloween, the spookiest creatures assembled.
“Trick or treat?”
“Treat!” said Spider.
Goblins threw a fly into her web.
“Trick or treat?”
“Trick!” said Ghost.
Goblins blew through him.
“Trick or treat?”
“Both!” said Witch.
Goblins flew her broom in loop-de-loops.
And presented a chocolate, pumpkin-shaped cupcake.
Finally, Werewolf’s turn arrived.
“Trick or treat?”
“Neither,” he barked under the full moon.
“I’m waiting for Halloween!”
The next day, wearing a sheep costume, Werewolf handed out oodles of treats and performed monstrous tricks.
Goblins and children alike howled with fright and delight – a Halloween dream come true.
Hello Melissa…so lovely to meet you via Susanna’s awesome contest. I love how everyone has the best Halloween…and how cool they each got to pick either Trick or Treat. 🙂
You can get to know Melissa better in MPBM too, Vivian! 🙂
What a fun story, Melissa! Love how some spooky creatures picked treat and others picked trick and they all got what was most appropriate for them! And love the Werewolf in sheep’s clothing 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR ANNE
LITTLE GHOST LOST
(100 words)
By Anne Bromley
On a dark new moon night, Little Ghost glided through trees draped in spider silk. He finally floated into town, landing in the middle of the Halloween parade.
Flinching at drums and horns, shrieks and howls, he searched for familiar faces.
But they were nowhere in sight.
Mingling with werewolves and witches, princesses and pirates, he finally slipped into Cinderella’s Court.
“What a fine ghost you are! What is your wish?”
He whispered, “Please find Mom and Dad.”
As Cinderella’s wand sliced the air, she screamed, “A real ghost!”
Two more flew out of the crowd. “Yes! He’s our son!”
Anne…how clever…and I loved that his mom and dad were reunited with their little ghostie. 😉
What lovely language and what a sweet story, Anne! I’m so glad the lost little ghost found his mom and dad! And Cinderella was very helpful, even if unintentionally so 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
This has been such a hoot!! My family and I are loving these stories; there are so many clever writers here👏 Your prize list is fun, fun, fun, too. Thank you all for such a wonderful experience and graciousness. I’m gushing, better run. ✍💪~Yvette
So glad you’re having fun, Yvette! I love seeing all the wonderful creative ideas and great writing everyone comes up with! It’s getting to the point where it wouldn’t feel like Halloween without Halloweensie 🙂
Thanks for another fun contest and writing challenge, Susanna!
Spider’s Trick or Treat
By Sara Gentry
The Itsy-Bitsy Spider walked up the moonlit street,
knocked on a door and hoped for something sweet.
Out popped a ghost, scared Spider off her feet.
Guess the Itsy-Bitsy Spider forgot it’s TRICK or Treat!
Fun rhyme to a familiar tune! 🙂
Thanks, Jill!
What a fun, and oh-so-short story, Sara! And you kept to the rhythm of the original, too. Definitely a TREAT!
Thank you!
I wish I’d thought of this. I for one, love parodies. I can’t believe you included the 3 key words in a 50 word entry! Impressive!
Thank you! I usually feel like such a dork for changing up an original standard, but it’s fun 🙂
Short and sweet, Sara…well, maybe not sweet for Spider who missed out on getting a treat. 😉 Lots of fun!
Thanks, Vivian! And thank you for the reminder on this – I caught it on your Twitter feed 🙂
Sara, you have officially knocked my socks off! Character, story, and a fun twist, a play on the traditional song, and all in about 12 words! Well done! I’m impressed! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
I really love reading all these clever stories! Thanks, Susanna for all you do!!! Happy Halloweensie!
BOOBOO GHOSTIE CAUGHT A SNEEZY
by Ann Kelley
Booboo Ghostie caught a sneezy.
“Hilda Spider, help me, pleasey.”
“Crumpled Cobwebs! You are germy.
Gulp this stew- it’s warm and wormy.”
“Achoo! Icky. Now I’m queasy.
Hilda Spider, cure me, pleasey.”
“Do not worry, Booboo Ghostie.
Nibble on this Zombie toastie.
Sip this brew of Ghoulish cider.
Hocus Pocus! Open wider.”
“Now I glow like moldy cheesy.
Hilda Spider, cure me, pleasey!”
“Broken Broomsticks! You’re still illy.
Try my mash of Moonbeam chili.”
“Eeks! I’m spewing. It’s too bitter.
But I shine like moonstone glitter.
Empty tummy! I feel dandy.
Lots of room for munching candy.”
This was fun to read aloud! I enjoyed your word play!
Thank you so much!! Happy Halloweensie!
Thank you, Ingrid! I just had to try my hand at rhyme. 🙂
Great rhyme, Ann…and I LOVE the ash of Moonbeam chili…great language…and hurrah that Booboo now has room for sweets. 😉
Thank you, Vivian! I greatly appreciate your comments. 🙂
This was so much fun to read, I love the way you put your words together!
Thanks, Jean! 🙂 I love trying to find the right words and stringing threading them together.
Great job! Love this one!
Thank you, Jen! 🙂
Fun!
Thanks, Sara! 🙂
Such fun!
Yeah! Thanks, Corine! 🙂
Nice job, Ann! Such a fun read-aloud rhythm! You’ve got some great language in here “broken broomsticks” and “shine like moonstone glitter”, and love the idea of Moonbeam chili… which apparently gave Booboo room for plenty of candy 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Always room for candy, especially chocolate. 🙂 Thank you so much for your kind words, Susanna! I had a lot of fun writing this and seeing the creativity of other writers! Thank you again for hosting the contest!
You’re very welcome, Ann! Thanks for your terrific entry. I can tell you the judges fought over this one!
BooBoo Finds a Friend
Spider’s web shimmers, twinkling in bright moonlight. Swarms of admiring fireflies arrive just in time for dinner.
“Oh, it’s beautiful,” says BooBoo. In a flash, fireflies vanish.
“Get lost, ghost!” yells Spider. Poor BooBoo.
Fox crouches among willows. Mouse warily sniffs the breeze. Hide-n-seek!
“May I play?” asks BooBoo. Mouse scampers away.
“Get lost, ghost!” yells Fox. Poor BooBoo.
Bear paws at a crevice─reaches for something inside.
“Whatcha doing?” asks BooBoo.
“Get lost, ghost!” growls Bear. Poor BooBoo.
“Help! Help!” a voice calls from the crevice.
“Stop!” BooBoo demands, growing very scary. Bear scats.
BooBoo finds a friend.
©2016 by Sydney O’Neill
Good for Booboo…he helped others all night…and got rewarded with a friend…hurray! I love it, Sydney. 😉
Thanks, Vivian! Unfortunately, it’s not about Halloween. My grandkids asked who the friend was and decided they wanted the friend to be a child, so here goes another try. 🙂
I got so carried away with the story, I forgot to follow the instruction to make it about Halloween. Here’s a Halloween revision:
BooBoo Finds A Friend
Spider’s web shimmers, twinkling in bright moonlight. Swarms of admiring fireflies arrive just in time for dinner.
“Oh, it’s beautiful,” says BooBoo.
In a flash, fireflies vanish.
“Get lost, ghost!” yells Spider.
Poor BooBoo.
Fox crouches among willows. Mouse warily sniffs the breeze. It’s hide-n-seek!
“May I play?” asks BooBoo.
Mouse scampers away.
“Get lost, ghost!” yells Fox.
Poor BooBoo.
Bear smells sweets like honey—sheeted ghostie’s pail of treats.
“Whatcha doing?” asks BooBoo.
“Get lost, ghost!” growls Bear.
Poor BooBoo.
“Help! Help!” chased ghostie calls.
“Stop!” BooBoo demands, growing very scary.
Bear scats.
Finally, BooBoo finds a friend.
©2016 by Sydney O’Neill
How you managed to fit three attempts and a complete story arc in 100 words, Sydney, I’ll never know. But I love your clever story!
Nice job, Sydney! Some of your language is beautiful – “Spider’s web shimmers, twinkling in bright moonlight” – and your story is fun and sweet. I love that Booboo could grow scary enough to scare bear in order to save ghostie, and I’m so glad Booboo found a friend in the end! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Spider and Moon
“Ooooooooooooohooooo,” groans Wind.
Moon grows full.
She rises over the dark night,
While ghosts fly
And goblins dance around pumpkins;
While Black Cat yeowels at Moon
And mice skittle away.
Spider creeps silently.
She spins her web.
Not here, but there…
Across Moon.
Quietly she weaves carefully, tirelessly, and joyfully.
Finally she rests and waits
While she warms her bones on Moon.
She does not have the bones of Skeleton dangling at your door!
Spider wears her bones on the outside as her skin!
Watch! Spider warms herself on ol’ Hallows’ Eve.
“Next to Mooooon,” whispers Wind.
Love the images, Jennifer…’while she warms her bones on Moon’…love that!
Ooh! Lovely spooky Halloween night, Jennifer, full of beautiful language and images! I agree with Vivian “warms her bones on the moon” is a wonderful line! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY #1 POSTED FOR HILARY
Witch hat on, broomstick handy.
Knock on doors, take the candy.
Halloween is lots of fun,
Until we spot a spider–RUN!
Kids all scatter. Everyone flees.
‘Someone, someone, kill it please!’
‘No!’ shouts a ghost, ‘He’s with me.’
‘He’s my tarantula, Spooky Lee.’
Grab him up beneath moonlight.
Helping friends. Happy sight.
I’m looking around. Where’s my dad?
I can’t find him. This is bad.
Let’s not panic. Look for mom.
Take deep breaths. Staying calm.
‘Mom,’ I yell. ‘Dad,’ I scream.
They rush over and I beam.
Halloween has been a blast.
We’re all together home at last.
I was happy for the happy ending to this one! 🙂
So glad he found mom and dad in the end, Hilary. I can remember getting separated from my parents at an Easter Egg roll at Central Park when I was 5 years old…pretty darn scary. 😉 I enjoyed your rhyme…best of luck in Susanna’s wonderful contest. 😉
Fun story, Hilary! Really sums up the Halloween experience! And haven’t we all had that moment of panic sometime when we can’t find mom and dad! Great job capturing the emotion! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY #2 POSTED FOR HILARY
My costume’s on, then I run. Ghostly me scares everyone.
But Halloween isn’t fun, if your mom’s a dentist.
I trick-or-treat door to door, get moonpies, sweets galore.
All that work–what a chore, if you’re mom’s a dentist!
No m&ms, no spider cake, no licorice for goodness sake.
No eating til your belly aches, if your mom’s a dentist.
Getting late. Gotta scoot. Back home, I inspect my loot,
Swapping it for ripened fruit, when your mom’s a dentist.
But if you have a cavity and jack-o-lantern teeth like me
You’ll be grinning happily, because your mom’s a dentist.
This is hilarious, Hilary…I love that having a mom as a dentist can be a plus or a minus. 😉
My kids groan because I’m a nurse, so I can totally relate to this kid’s dentist mom. Clever idea, and fun to read. Good luck!
What a fun and clever take on Halloween, Hilary! Of course it would be tough if your mom is a dentist! Fruit indeed! I think if I were your MC I would have detoured by the garage and eaten some of my loot before mom could swap it for healthier choices! 🙂 Thanks so much for another great contest entry!
ENTRY POSTED FOR SUSIE
The Ghost of the Moon Spider
By Susie Sawyer
On Halloween night, the moon beckons bright.
The ghost of the Moon Spider comes out to creep.
A century old, transparent and cold,
it searches for someone to bite in their sleep.
With vampire fangs, it silently hangs
until it can lower itself to your bed.
Your neck in its sight, its venomous bite
painstakingly planted goes straight to your head.
Then slowly you’ll change. You’ll start to feel strange
and you’ll hope that your nightmare will come to an end.
Alas, it’s too late. His bite sealed your fate.
The ghost of the Moon Spider now has a friend.
This is great – a proper Halloween scary story, and in rhyme too!
Thank you very much!
Yipes! I will try NOT to think of this as I go to bed to tonight! Good SCARY job!
Thank you!!
Woow, that was awesome, and scaryyyy !
Thanks Jessica!😁
Fabulous rnyme scheme, Susie…and great story…oh-oh…I’m pulling my collar up…don’t want my neck in sight. 🙂
Bwa-ha-haaa! Mission accomplished! Hee hee!😀
Well done!! Love the ending.
Thank you Kristy!
Love your awesome rhyme and spooky story, Susie!
Why thank you Sandy! 🙂
Ooh! Just the right amount of spooky, Susie! Clever story, well told, great rhyme! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Hey Susie,
Just a small word to say that your entry was our favorite (like, we liked it better than our own…)!! My boyfriend and I really really enjoyed it, and both agreed the story, the rhymes, and the spookiness was brilliant. I was sad not to see your piece among the finalists, but hopefully I’ll see it published somewhere in the near future =)
I wish you the best with your writing career =)
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARTY
Little Spider’s Magic Halloween (100 words) – Marty McCormick
“Make me beautiful, just for tonight.”
Little Spider’s fairy ghost-mother smiled. “A bit of magic. . .”
She waved her wand. Little Spider felt instantly different.
She scurried to the dance, where she whirled and twirled in the moonlight.
Her friends cried, “You’re glowing! What’s happened?”
“I’m just happy, that’s all.”
Back home before midnight, she said, “Thank you, it was lovely. I’m ready to be Little Spider again.”
“Nothing’s changed, my dear. The magic was in you. You’re still beautiful.”
“I choose to feel this way always then, Little Spider murmured, settling into her web with a smile.
And she did!
Delightful! Love the ending:)
Thanks for your comments, Kathy!
Ah…great message…she was beautiful all the time…love this,Marty. 😉
It’s amazing how just the suggestion of magic can give us confidence! Hurray for Little Spider – she had it in her all along! Thanks so much for a lovely entry, Marty, and for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Ahh, love this, Marty! Well done!
ENTRY POSTED FOR SARAH
Gilford’s Halloween
Gilford Ghost knew three things:
1. Halloween, the worst holiday, was quickly approaching.
2. Full moon + Halloween = super spooky magic.
3. He would not miss out!
So he tried BOOS. Scary!
He tried gliding. Clunky and scary!
He tried lurking. Stiff and frail and scary!
Gilford moped near the forest, admiring the agile acrobatics of spiders and silk. Then Gilford hatched a plan.
On Halloween, Gilford’s BOOS were strong. His glides were light. His lurks were creepy and flexible. Just like spider silk.
Gilford felt invincible in his spider silk coat with his new friends by his side.
Nice story, Sarah…I think Gilford has started a silk weaving cottage industry in the forest…good for him. 🙂
Hurray for Gilford finding a way to embrace the Halloween spirit! There’s nothing like teamwork 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun, Sarah!
Fun contest – thanks so much, and Happy Halloween!
CRINKLE-SNAP by Jill Giesbrecht (93words)
CRINKLE-SNAP! I wake to inky blackness and bolt upright. Where is the moonlight when I need it?
“Who’s there?” I squeak, frantically bending down and stretching under the bed to reach – IT’S GONE!
“NO!!” Forgetting my fear, I leap out of bed.
THUMP-BUMP! Clumsy clamoring echoes as I stumble for the switch.
BLINK-BANG! A tumbling jumble of legs and arms splay like a smashed spider beside my closet.
Empty wrappers, ghosts of my loot, trail across the floor.
My Halloween candy had been stolen – and I caught my sneaky sisters in the act!
Well done! I did not know what to expect! 🙂
Thanks! 🙂
Hello Jill…I LOVE ’empty wrappers, ghosts of my loot, trail across the floor’..super image.
And a fun story every kid can relate to…my kids used to count their loot to make sure none of their siblings took any. 🙂
Clever title. And I love the “empty wrappers, ghosts of my loot” – what a creative way to incorporate “ghost.”
Well done, Jill! Love the mysterious set-up, the onomatopoetic noises, and the fun ending – you’ve got to watch out for those sneaky sisters!!! 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Great tension in this story, Jill! Fun surprise ending!
The Dare
Jake paused before the ramshackle house. No ghosts or spiders decorated the porch. No light shone for trick-or-treaters. But there was no way he could back out now.
Breathing raggedly, he followed his shadow to the door and knocked.
The door opened. A stooped old woman stood in the moonlight. Witch? Or not? His heart beat witchwitchwitchwitchwitch…
“I’m afraid I haven’t any candy, young man.”
Not witch! He knew it!
Jake thought fast. “I have lots.” He held out his bag. “Would you like some of mine?”
“I’d love some,” she cackled, her gnarled hand tangling with his. “Come in.”
I love your word choice! The twist at the end is awesome! Great story!
Aww, thanks, Kathy! Glad you liked it.
CREEPY!!!! Well done! 🙂
Yay! So glad you thought so!
Oh no, Sandy…now what happens? I have to know!!!!!
You’ve got me hooked…is she or isn’t she?
Hmm… Vivian, that would be telling!
Creepy with a cliff hanger…love it!
Thanks so much, Jean! I’m happy you liked it.
Whew! That’s a roller coaster of emotion in so few words. I want to yell, “No, no, Jake. Don’t go!” Great job, Sandy!
Hurray! It had the desired effect! Thanks for the encouragement, Sydney.
Ooh! Nicely done, Sandy! Spooky ending! Shivery! Great job! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Oooh, Sandy! Truly creepy … and a double surprise ending! Nice!
Check out my Halloweensie story The Haunted Outhouse
https://matthewlasley.wordpress.com/2016/10/29/the-haunted-outhouse/
On Halloween night
By Rocio Monroy
On Halloween night,
Pumpkins are scattered about.
And just like the moon,
They shine and they’re around.
On Halloween night, the spiders come out.
And with their eight legs they crawl fast on the ground.
They make big cobwebs and then they hang from the trees
To scare all the children that want to trick or treat.
On Halloween night,
Ghost appeared suddenly.
People run and scream when they see them floating around,
The ghosts say, “People, calm down,
We’re not cruel. We’re not mean.
We are only here to wish you
A Happy Halloween.”
Friendly ghosts? Those are the best kind, Roxie…Happy Halloween to you as well. 🙂
Nice job of creating the mood and atmosphere of Halloween night, Rocio! And thank goodness the ghosts turned out to be friendly 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR LAURA
Laura Gutman – 100 words
Hilda hated Halloween. She never knew what to be. There were too many costume choices. She sipped her soda and thought. A spider? But eight legs would surely make it hard to walk. A ghost? Saying BOO all night from under a stuffy sheet sounded miserable. A werewolf? No, the moon was only a sliver. A skeleton? All bones, no meat. She slurped the last of her drink. She was wound up and had to pee. Maybe she’d skip Halloween altogether. Then she had the best idea yet. She burst out of the bathroom…a mummy. Tada! That’s a wrap.
LOL!
Oh my goodness..this is so funny, Laura…I can see each picture…especially the last one…Ta-Da!!!
Laura, your last line is perfect! Great story.
Hahaha, Laura! You made me laugh! Love Hilda’s stream of consciousness thinking and her rationale – I have to say agree! – and that her soda-induced trip to the loo ended up giving her the perfect idea! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MIKE
What Spiders Dream – Mike Sylvester
(100 words)
Spiders never see December. October is the end. When the moon wanes, the webs empty and the eggs wait like ghosts. I knew these things, every spider does, but it didn’t mean I had to give up the ghost easily. I built my web beneath a heating vent and hoped for the best. If I could see Christmas then maybe I could make spring. It was a pipe dream. It was my only dream.
The day that I died was bitter cold. Halloween. The rain came. The web tattered. The titter of drops on pipes as I waited for May.
I don’t like spiders in the house…but you had me feeling sorry for yours, Mike…and I loved ‘I built my web beneath a heating vent and hoped for the best…it was a pipe dream. That evokes a really vivid image for me…good job!
Oh my goodness, Mike! How unexpectedly poignant! I love this unusual spider POV, and I have to say, I was rooting for the spider to make it 😦 Nice use of language, and very original story! Thanks so much for joining in the contest!
Sick or Treat by Candy Wellins
Bree shook and trembled, white as a ghost.
Then suddenly hot like a piece of burnt toast.
But this was not some Halloween trick.
Poor little Bree was just plain sick.
She itched to go out on this moonlit night
To get lots of candy and give others a fright.
Her mother said sorry. Dad said no way.
Bree’d be in bed for this holiday.
Spiders and witches paraded outside.
Bree hid under her covers and cried.
Knocks at the door. Giggles on the street.
Her friends came to her! Bree cried “Sick or Treat.”
This is cute, Candy…and I love that her friends came to visit her. 😉 And Sick or Treat is great word play. 😉
Aw! Poor Bree! Halloween is a terrible day for a kid to be sick and miss out! I’m so glad she was able to see some of the fun from her window and that her friends came to her! And “sick or treat” was funny 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the contest fun, Candy!
The Ghoulie-Gold Fairy, by Emily Veela
When Halloween night swoops over the earth on inky raven wings, what’s a golden-winged fairy to do? Owls hoot, witches brew, and sweet Fairy Goldfeather sighs…how’s a gold-feathered fairy to look ghoulish? Ghosts shouldn’t gleam gold, and witches don’t twinkle and make wishes come true. Ahh, wishes! “I wish I were a ghoulie-gold fairy tonight!” With a wave of her wand, Fairy Goldfeather’s wings glow in spiderweb lace and her gown gleams ghoulishly white. On spidery wings she glides through the night, blowing kisses like ghosties that float to the moon.
Oh, my! What a dilemma for a fairy, Emily – I never thought of that! 🙂 I’m so glad Fiary Goldfeather came up with a plan! And love some of your use of language – very pretty – “Fairy Goldfeather’s wings glow in spiderweb lace and her gown gleams ghoulishly white. On spidery wings she glides through the night…” Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Little Miss Zombie
89 word Halloweensie Story
By Ingrid Boydston
Little Miss Zombie
said “What a quandary!”
Eating her full-moon stew.
Along came ghost spider,
who sat down beside her,
hollering, “What will we do?!”
“Stay calm and be cool.
Don’t slobber or drool.
Remember they think it’s a game.
They wear costumes for fun;
take them off when they’re done.
They don’t know we are always the same.”
“We don’t have a choice
So lower your voice.
We’ll just give them candy to eat.
We can’t make a scene
for tonight’s Halloween!”
“Here they come! Open up…”
“Trick-or-Treat!”
These contest are such fun! Thank you Susanna, for making them happen!
Love this Ingrid! Very clever 🙂
Thanks Jen! :)!
What a great spin you thought of! And the rhyme makes it so much fun to read, Ingrid.
Thanks for reading! Glad you had fun. 🙂
Wonderful rhyme! AND you told your story in 89 words. Well done!
Thanks Debbie! Made my day!
Well done, Ingrid! Love this twist on Miss Muffet – your rhyme and meter are spot on! And the story is clever and fun! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie madness! 🙂
Thanks for offering this contest! My boyfriend and I had a lot of fun writing this story together =)
Kali and Asha
by Jessica Hoffmann and Noah Weisz
Kali the spider was alone, watching the moon in the river. A girl named Asha walked up to her, wearing a baggy ghost costume.
“What are you doing here?” asked the girl. “It’s Halloween. You should be out scaring people!”
“I’m not scary,” said Kali, looking down. “All my friends went without me.”
“I’m not scary either!” said Asha. “I’m too small.”
“And I’m too smiley!”
“Wait,” said Asha. “I have an idea!”
Asha went back to the village, seemingly alone. But whenever she said “Trick or treat!”, the sound would come from a smiling spider, sitting on her tongue….
Asha Is scary now!! Cute friend story with a creepy Halloween twist. 🙂
Ooh! Clever and spooky, Jessica and Noah! Nothing like friendship and teamwork! I bet together they did their share of scaring 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARIE
Trick Or Treat by Marie Tucker
“Trick or treat!” they shout on Halloween night.
“What have we here?” Ms. Witch continues with delight.
“A goblin, a ghost, and a witch! Ooooo! What a fright!”
Ghost drops his bag, hugs Goblin with all his might.
“Oh! Don’t be frightened by little ol’ me.”
Ms. Witch says “I have treats! Look! See!
“Moon-pies, dipped apples, and spider-crisp jellies!”
Goblin pries Ghost from his pillow padded belly.
“Dipped apples sound nice. What are they dipped in?”
Asks Little Witch with some apprehension.
“An old family recipe, hot from my cauldron!”
Kids turn tail screaming “Eeeeek!” as they run.
Eeek is right, Marie! I love the line “Ghost drops his bag, hugs Goblin with all his might.” And then later “Goblin pries Ghost from his pillow padded belly.” Nice detail!
Nice job, Marie. I’m not entirely sure I trust Ms. Witch 🙂 I have a feeling Little Witch was right to express some apprehension 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR JERRY
Ghost and Spiders by Jerry Watson
“Am I the only fourth grader who hates Halloween,
Max?” Julian said as Max purred and snuggled closer.
“I like trick-or-treating for candy, but creepy
spiders and spooky ghost costumes in the moonlight
are too scary.”
“Why are you scared of ghost?”
“W-Who said that?”
“I did.”
“Wait a minute, y-you’re a ghost?”
“Yes. And I’m sad.”
“Sad? Why?”
“Would you like it if kids dressed up like you
just to scare people?”
“I guess not, but how did you become a ghost?”
“I’ll tell you, and then we’ll talk about spiders.”
Great dialogue, Jerry! I am wondering about the ending. Was a spider somehow to blame for the ghost becoming a ghost?? Eeewww!
Ooh! Nothing like a ghost to give you the shivers when you’re afraid of ghosts! I’m glad Julian’s ghost turned out to be friendly… but I’m wondering what’s up with the spiders! 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
ENTRY POSTED FOR MARY
Halloween for Real by Mary Rudzinski
Yellow moon, black shadows
Strange creatures crept to doorways
Howls, screams floated through the air
Trick or treating is no fun alone, thought Henry.
A ghost and spider, stood side by side, glowing and glistening.
“Walk together?” Henry asked. They just stared.
Henry shrugged. “Let’s go”!
The new friends followed silently.
“Trick or treat” said Henry at the first house.
Three bags quickly filled- plop, plop, plop.
The friends walked, floated and crawled house to house, surprising neighbors.
With bulging bags and aching arms, Henry yawned.
“You’re the best!” Henry hugged goodbye!
Two friends disappeared – invisible and trailing silk thread.
Oooh, spooky, Mary!
Ooh! What a spooky and fun Halloween night, Mary! Were they real? Who knows…! 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Susanna, thanks for a fun challenge, and Happy Halloween!
(not sure my post worked, so apologies if this appears twice)
The Halloween Moon
As darkness grows, the round moon glows. Small spiders gather to ask Old Spider, “Tell us the Halloween story, PLEASE!” Old Spider begins, “Each month, the Great Sky Spider spins a giant egg sac, but the Halloween moon is special. When the moon is ready and a witch waves her wand, the egg sac opens. Countless ghosts fly out and drift to earth, moving through the night on magical clear threads.” A gust of wind whooshes the leaves, and something rustles. “Look, here they come now!” The small spiders scatter and hide, then creep out to beg, “Tell it again!”
Ooh a Halloween spider folk tale, great idea!
Marvelous, Lisa! Love this Halloween folk tale, the way the little ones beg to hear it again, the way they run off frightened but come right back for more – so true-to-life! Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie madness with this fun story!
Hi Susanna, What a great collection of stories you have gathered. I’ve linked mine with the Linky Tool. I hope that’s all I had to do. I’m looking forward to coming back and reading all of the entries after the contest closes (to make sure I don’t miss any!) Thanks for a fun contest!
Yes, Norah, that’s all! My fellow judges and I will get around to everyone, never fear 🙂 Looking forward to having a chance to read all the entries – there is so much busy/administrative work to do while the entries are going up that I don’t get to read everything until the contest closes! Enjoy reading all the entries!
Thanks, Susanna. I’m pleased I entered correctly. I’m looking forward to reading all the stories. Thanks for a great contest. 🙂
Thank you once again for hosting a fantastically fun contest! I love reading all the entries and also challenging myself to enter, but my absolute favorite thing, is the way these contests bring so many people together! Thank you for all your hard work and for providing this wonderful opportunity to so many fellow children’s literature fans.
You’re very very welcome, Three Show! It is absolutely my pleasure! I love the contests for very same reasons, and I feel most fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community of talented, motivated, friendly writers who make it so much fun!
Everyone’s Afraid of Something
My name’s Arachna. I’m a spider. Lots of people are afraid of me, especially on Halloween. No costume necessary.
But I still need to get ready. I’ve got to climb above this doorway so I can drop down in front of the trick-or-treaters. Oh boy! Here comes a ghost now.
“Trick or treat!”
Watch this.
“Aahhhh! Spider! Run away!”
I ain’t afraid of no ghosts. Don’t you love that song? Want to see me moonwalk? Maybe later. Here comes another one. It’s going to be a busy night.
Aahhhh! Dog! Run away! What can I say? Everyone’s afraid of something.
Love the moonwalk line, Debbie! Great story.
Thanks, Sandy! 🙂
Hahaha! Love your sassy spider, Debbie, and that even she is afraid of something! 🙂 Thanks so much for joining in the Halloweensie fun!
Always look forward to it, Susanna! Thanks for your tireless efforts!